Davis teacher facing sex-crime allegation resigns

The Davis Joint Unified School District has accepted the resignation of a junior high school teacher accused of a sex-related crime.

John O’Brien, 40, who was a teacher at Harper Junior High School, continues to face criminal charges in Yolo Superior Court, according to the district.

He was arrested in November following a lengthy investigation, according to police.

Davis police said they received a report about the veteran teacher in September.

District Superintendent Winfred B. Roberson Jr. said in November that that the alleged events did not happen on campus. Police Lt. Thomas Waltz said O'Brien is suspected of inappropriately touching a 16-year-old boy over his clothing.

O'Brien was placed on unpaid administrative leave, pending dismissal proceedings. The board decided to accept O’Brien’s resignation at its meeting on Jan. 11.

O’Brien agreed to resign for a payment of $37,000, which is a portion of his unused sick leave.

“The board, on a 5-0 vote, agreed to sever the relationship with Mr. O’Brien immediately,” said Alan Fernandes, board president. “The security of our children is paramount. This agreement was designed to secure a resignation at the least possible cost to the district. We were certain that the cost of pursuing this matter through the dismissal process would likely exceed $100,000.”

Call The Bee’s Bill Lindelof, (916) 321-1079.

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